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The four quantum numbers for the electron in the outer most orbital of potassium (atomic no. 19) are

Q1 FREE PREVIEW

The four quantum numbers for the electron in the outer most orbital of potassium (atomic no. 19) are

a

\(\mathrm{n}=4,\mathrm{l}=0,\mathrm{m}=0,\mathrm{s}=+1/2\)

b

\(\mathrm{n}=2,\mathrm{l}=0,\mathrm{m}=0,\mathrm{s}=+1/2\)

c

\(\mathrm{n}=3,\mathrm{l}=2,\mathrm{m}=−1,\mathrm{s}=+1/2\)

d

\(\mathrm{n}=3,\mathrm{l}=0,\mathrm{m}=1,\mathrm{s}=+1/2\)

✓ Correct answer: a)

\(\mathrm{n}=4,\mathrm{l}=0,\mathrm{m}=0,\mathrm{s}=+1/2\)

Explanation

Step-by-step Short Solution:
- Potassium (Z = 19)

Electron configuration:

\[
1 s^2 2 s^2 2 p^6 3 s^2 3 p^6 4 s^1
\]

  • The outermost electron is in the 4 s orbital, so:
  • Principal quantum number \(n=4\)
  • Azimuthal quantum number \(l=0\) (since it's an 's' orbital)
  • Magnetic quantum number \(m=0\) (only one value for \(l=0\) )
  • Spin quantum number \(s=+\frac{1}{2}\) (assumed to be \(+1 / 2\) for the first electron)

Final Answer:
A) \(n=4, l=0, m=0, s=+\frac{1}{2}\)

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